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GYPSIES
The Council agreed in principle to the setting up of a site for
about ten local gypsy families. It is envisaged that the site would
be self-contained with washing and sanitary blocks and controlled
in the same manner as other Council-owned caravan sites within
the Borough. Although no decision has been made, Gerpins tip
area was thought to be the most likely site when grassed over as
it is sufficiently remote from a built-up area, yet within striking
distance of shops, schools, etc. It is essential to bring these people
into the orbit of the community without delay, particularly as a
settled abode will mean that the children concerned can be educated
more readily and continuously.
COMMON LODGING HOUSES
There are no registered common lodging houses in the
Borough.
HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION
The question of houses in multiple occupation received a considerable
amount of attention during the year and a comprehensive
report on this subject was submitted to the Council.
The number of these premises has slowly increased from about
2 in 1960 to at least 18 in 1965 and vigorous action has been taken
by the Department to improve conditions in this type of occupation.
The Fire Prevention Officer of the London Fire Brigade gave
assistance and advice in respect of the provision of means of escape
from fire and fireproofing.
Apart from the fire hazard the items with which we are mainly
concerned, for which standards were adopted by the Council, are
cleanliness, repair and decoration, personal and domestic washing
facilities, food storage, overcrowding and rent books.
Close supervision of these properties is being maintained. The
houses with which we have to deal are generally smaller and more
modern than the larger type of premises which are the main problem
in London and Midland towns.
DRAINAGE AND SEWERAGE
(a) Extension of Service
The Borough Engineer and Surveyor has reported that
during the year the following extensions have been made to
the main sewers:—
1,085 yards of foul sewers.
3,305 yards of surface water sewer.
Twelve premises were re-drained and connected to the
sewer during the year.
(b) Cleansing of Private Sewers
To facilitate the cleansing of private sewers the Council
agreed to extend the practice—which applied to the northern
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